Domestic Violence: Checklist of Things to Take When You Leave

Topic Overview

If you want to save this information but don't think it is safe to take it home, see if a trusted friend can keep it for you. Plan ahead. Know who you can call for help, and memorize the phone number.

Be careful online too. Your online activity may be seen by others. Do not use your personal computer or device to read about this topic. Use a safe computer such as one at work, a friend's house, or a library.

Here are some helpful items to get together when you are
planning on leaving an abusive situation. Keep these items in a safe place
until you are ready to leave or in case you need to leave suddenly. If you have
children, take them. And take your pets, too, if possible.

Checklist for preparing to leave an abusive situation

Identification for yourself and your
children

Birth certificates

Social
Security cards (or numbers written on paper if you can't find the
cards)

Driver's license

Photo identification or
passport

Welfare identification

Green card

Important personal papers

Marriage certificate

Divorce
papers

Custody orders

Legal protection or restraining
orders

Health insurance papers and medical cards

Medical records for all family members

Children's school
records

Investment papers/records and account numbers

Work permits

Immigration papers

Rental
agreement/lease or house deed

Car title, registration, and
insurance information

Records of police reports you have filed, or other evidence of abuse

Funds

Cash

Credit
cards

ATM card

Checkbook and bankbook (with deposit
slips)

Keys

House

Car

Safety
deposit box or post office box

A way to communicate

Phone calling card

Cell
phone

Address book

Medicines

At least 1 month's supply for all
medicines you and your children are taking, as well as a copy of the
prescriptions

A way to get by

Jewelry or small objects you can sell, if
you run out of money or stop having access to your accounts

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